Villar proposes barangay water system

Sen. Manuel Villar yesterday sought the construction of a potable water supply system in each barangay nationwide to prevent outbreaks of potentially fatal water-borne diseases.

Villar filed Senate Bill 2215, which mandates the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to undertake the construction of potable water systems in each barangay nationwide over a span of three years.

"This proposed measure will realize the longtime dream of our people, including the few families who manage to afford electric pumps despite exorbitant electric bills, in obtaining a modern potable water system in their areas," Villar said.

In filing the measure, Villar was reacting to the outbreak of acute gastroenteritis in Tondo, Manila, where a total of 559 people were infected with acute gastroenteritis, five of whom have died over the last two weeks.

"The only definitive solution to stop the spread of this disease is to have a clean supply of drinking water," he said.

According to Villar, the government agencies concerned must immediately inspect the quality of water being sold in water-refilling stations in Tondo, as well, to ensure the safety of consumers’ health.

"The government must crack the whip on erring officials or agencies for failing to maintain the water pipes and the water quality in Manila," he added. — Jose Rodel Clapano